Collagen-based dermal matrices

Skintex is a standardized, commercial kit developed to combine into one test two distinct steps of skin irritation membrane permeation and protein denaturation [15]. The method is based on a two-compartment model separated by a semipermeable membrane coated with a keratin-collagen matrix cross-linked to a dye. The surfactant-based test material is applied in the upper compartment. If the material is an irritant, it penetrates through the membrane into the lower compartment and releases the dye from the membrane into the lower compartment. There, the surfactant denatures globulin and dermal proteins which undergo conformational changes. The irritation potential of the material is quantified by measuring the increase of turbidity of this compartment. 

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